US Imposes Visa Deposit Requirement on Algerian Nationals

The United States has introduced a new immigration measure requiring Algerian nationals to pay a substantial refundable deposit to obtain a US tourist or business visa, effective January 2026, as part of broader efforts to curb visa overstays.

Algerians Affected by a New Financial Requirement

According to a statement released by the US State Department on Tuesday, January 6, Algeria has been added to a list of 38 countries whose citizens may now be required to pay a financial deposit when applying for a B1/B2 visa for tourism or business.

Starting January 21, 2026, Algerian applicants deemed eligible for this visa category may be asked to pay a deposit of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. The exact amount will be determined during the consular interview and will be required in addition to standard visa application fees.

A Measure Aimed at Limiting Visa Overstays

US authorities say the decision is part of a broader strategy to reduce visa overstays and irregular immigration. The list of affected countries was established based on a Department of Homeland Security report analyzing overstay rates among foreign visitors.

Algeria joins several African nations impacted by this policy, including Senegal, Mauritania, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Gabon, and Angola.

Strict Payment and Travel Conditions

The State Department clarified that the deposit must only be paid after explicit instructions from a consular officer. Payments must be made exclusively through the official Pay.gov platform using the Department of Homeland Security’s Form I-352.

Authorities warn that any payment made without prior authorization will not be refunded, even if the visa application is denied. Moreover, paying the deposit does not guarantee visa approval.

Once granted a visa, travelers must enter and exit the United States through designated airports, such as Boston, New York JFK, and Washington Dulles. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in refusal of entry.

When Is the Deposit Refunded?

The deposit may be fully refunded in three cases:

• If the traveler leaves the United States on or before the authorized stay expires

• If the traveler does not enter the United States before the visa expires

• If entry is denied at a US border checkpoint

However, any overstay will lead to the permanent forfeiture of the deposit.

Conclusion

This new financial requirement represents a significant barrier for many Algerians seeking to travel legally to the United States. It marks another step in the tightening of US visa policies and could lead to a sharp decline in visa applications from Algeria in the coming years.